IOTA and the Big “Q”
By Spencer Ceurvorst
http://thehodlr.com/iota-and-the-big-q/What is “Q”?
Well to be blunt, no one knows. I would like to explore all of the possibilities and try to determine the most realistic answer. The below theories are listed in no particular order.
Theory 1: Qubic
At this time, not much is known about what Qubic is, other than its curious relationship to JINN processors. According to the user “Come-from-Beyond” from NXTForum, a “JINN processor is a bunch of independent cores. A piece of code (entity) running on a core does some computations and can interact via messages with other entities running on other cores… There were math co-processors speeding up floating-point operations in the past. Now we have GPUs that are used to render 3D scenes. JINN has its specific usage too, it’s designed to lower interaction latency of distributed computations.”
With this technology, “Q” may bring distributed computing models to IOTA protocols with JINN processors. A user would be able to access the global computational power of all JINN devices in order to lower latency to a minimal state.
More Information and Sources:
tangleblog.org
NXTForum
IOTA’s Q = Qubic – Medium
Theory 2: Qualcomm’s C-V2X Technology
C-V2X, which stands for “Cellular Vehicle-to-Everything”, is a new chip set announced by Qualcomm that was recently showcased at CES 2018. It aims to “empower the (auto) industry, including automakers and roadside infrastructure providers, with enhanced V2X capabilities for safety and autonomous driving.” C-V2X is optimized to take full advantage of future 5G markets while also improving autonomous driving, secure communication, and cost efficiency. IOTA has already been proposed as a solution for auto-related issues with partnerships such as Volkswagen and Bosch. A potential IOTA partnership could help bridge the IoT world with the future of the auto industry.
More Information Sources:
Qualcomm
Qualcomm Blog
Theory 3: “Q” May be Related to Oracles
One attribute of distributed ledgers, such as the Tangle, is that they are cut off from the outside world. Implementing Oracles helps accomplish three main objectives: importing outside data into the Tangle (such as timestamps), providing solutions to computation-heavy tasks, and acting as a link between other blockchains. Dominik Schiener, Co-Founder of the IOTA token, states that “With our Oracle platform we not only aim at connecting the physical world with IOTA; but we also want to enable true interoperability with all other Blockchain platforms.”
Sources:
A Primer on IOTA (with Presentation)
Theory 4: Quantum Computing
It is unclear where Quantum computing will be in a few years, but Google has already announced plans to create a 49 qubit computer and Microsoft has recently released Q#, a language used in Quantum computing. With IOTA’s Quantum resistance, it is not hard to imagine that “Q” relates to future IoT innovations and relationships with Quantum computing.
Sources:
Microsoft Q#
APS Physics
Conclusion
If I was forced to put money on one of these four theories, I would bet on Qubic. With IOTA’s already close relationship to JINN processors, it seems to be the most plausible option. Coming from a non-developer stance, it is difficult to ascertain the truth and predict what will actually happen. Whatever happens though, IOTA fans hope they that they will be able to agree with Sønstebø’s hype. 2018 is gearing up to be a big year for IOTA.
